Plans approved for £56m leisure centre project in Giffnock

Planning permission has been granted for a new leisure centre and theatre in Giffnock, East Renfrewshire. The new complex will replace a 40-year-old leisure centre and is set to house an eight-lane swimming pool, learner pool, a large fitness suite and three fitness studios, as well as a four-court games hall. A large theatre space will be complemented by a smaller studio theatre and bar.

Expected to cost £56m, the new facility will be built alongside the existing leisure centre in Giffnock’s Eastwood Park. The old centre will remain open until the new one opens, in order for local residents to still have access to leisure facilities during the construction process. Work on the new complex – which will be owned by East Renfrewshire Council – is due to begin later this year, though some preliminary work will be required before then.

The council will continue to engage with key stakeholders ahead of the main building work. The new facilities are expected to open to the public in the second half of 2027 and the existing leisure centre and theatre would then be demolished.

The council said: “This is a significant milestone in our plans to replace facilities which are more than 40 years old and no longer fit for purpose.”